Another North Carolina congregation is grieving after a fire destroyed the sanctuary of First Baptist Church of Mount Holly July 21.
The Mount Holly Fire Department attempted to access the fire origin but were pulled from the building when flames grew. According to the department, the roof collapsed into the sanctuary, and crews worked to contain the fire and prevent it from reaching other parts of the church campus. Firefighters stayed at the location overnight to monitor the sanctuary. No injuries were reported.
The church held a worship service July 24 at Mount Holly’s Grand Hall.
“We covet the prayers of the community and Christian brothers and sisters of all stripes, and we are overwhelmed at all those that have already sent words of support to us,” Pastor Kendell Cameron said in a statement to the Biblical Recorder. “We are especially thankful for those that have offered to share facilities with us.”
An investigation is ongoing to determine the fire’s cause and assess total damage to the campus. The sanctuary was built in 1924 and renovated in 1989. Church leaders have said they plan to rebuild the sanctuary. A cause for the fire is expected this week.
Cameron said, “We love our beautiful sanctuary, but we know ultimately that it is not First Baptist Church. First Baptist Church is the people who come to worship and who come to serve Christ together. Our hearts are indeed broken, but we will trust in the Savior who is our Rock and Redeemer to carry us through. We trust fully, and, like Abraham, we believe the Lord will provide.”
A fire July 17 destroyed Cherry Grove Baptist Church’s sanctuary in Cerro Gordo.